48 hours in Gisborne

A month-long getaway to recharge is unattainable for most of us, but with 48 hours and beautiful, charming towns right on our doorstep, a weekend getaway is the perfect alternative.

Just an hour plane flight from Auckland, Gisborne is a city steeped in culture, world-class wine and excellent food. The first place in New Zealand to greet the sun each morning, your days will quickly fill, leaving you with a special place in your heart for this charming town.

Saturday

Your first morning in the city that first greeted discoverer Captain James Cook…why not take inspiration from his adventuring spirit? Cycle Gisborne offers guided tours, complete with a bicycle and a local guide with knowledge to share. Unwind as you’re introduced to the city and learn about its rich history.

Just 45 minutes from Gisborne is one of New Zealand’s most charming waterfalls. Located on Farmland, Rere Falls is located on the Wharekopae River. Visible from the car, and only a minute walk, this natural beauty offers the perfect picnic spot & a fantastic swimming pool to cool off.

Then, merely a few minutes away, Champagne Falls is tucked away like a secret little gem. Named for the way the water falls and creates a bubbling fizzy pool, this is worth the climb down to see.

With the long, hot sunshine hours and fertile clay, Gisborne has produced some of the country’s most acclaimed & celebrated wines. Find out why by heading to one of the many vineyards. With live bands on the weekend, Wrights Vineyard and Winery is the place to unwind, sip a glass of quality, organic wine and share a platter from their cellar door menu.

Or, choose Kirkpatrick Estate Winery & relax in the sunshine. With picturesque views overlooking the Malbec vineyard and Patutahi Plateau, you can relax, recharge and enjoy wine and antipasto in the afternoon sun.

Sunday
Start your day off right by arriving at one of Gisborne’s many cafes for breakfast and coffee. Then, immerse yourself in culture and history at Tairawhiti Museum. Walk through the halls of this museum and art gallery that showcases Maori culture, tradition and history. An engaging and educational gem, the museum has gained a reputation as one of the very best in New Zealand. Stop for a coffee in their café or even a bite to eat.

If you’re feeling adventurous, the perfect next stop is Dive Tatapouri. Dive Tatapouri’s Reef Ecology Tour is a fascinating way to discover the marine wildlife of Gisborne. Kit yourself out in their waders and join them in observing (and even feeding) sea creatures such as stingray and octopus. Bookings are essential, so make sure to call in advanced (& make sure to grab your waterproof camera!).

If dry land is more your style, make your way to the beautiful Eastwoodhill Arboretum. Pack a picnic and spend the day enjoying the sunshine, exploring and admiring the amazing variation of exotic and native trees and plants. Enjoy the peace and serenity, listen to the chatter of native birds and find the perfect picnic spot.

As the day winds down, choose from one of the many beautiful restaurants and dine overlooking the river. Set in the elegant historic Lysnar Ballroom, The Marina Restaurant offers impeccable French Cuisine and attentive service. Or, just down the road The Works is the place to go for both traditional and contemporary dining. Combine beautiful food made with fresh, local produce and award-winning wines for a memorable dining experience.

Gisborne is the perfect place to create memories to carry you through till the next getaway. With small town charm, sensational food, wine and scenery, you will no doubt find yourself yearning for it in months to come!